In a heartwarming tale of transformation, Donna Lucero has turned her life around from being a recipient of food assistance to becoming an active volunteer at the same pantry that once supported her. A decade ago, Lucero faced financial hardships that made putting food on the table a challenge. Today, she dedicates her time to helping others in need, embodying resilience and generosity. Her story not only highlights personal growth but also underscores the importance of community support during tough times. Lucero’s journey is a testament to overcoming adversity and giving back with gratitude. The Community Ministry of Southwest Denver, where she volunteers, has seen a significant increase in demand for services, reflecting broader societal challenges. Lucero’s unwavering spirit continues to inspire both volunteers and clients alike.

Lucero’s path to volunteering began when she first encountered the Community Ministry through a local church. Initially overwhelmed by the kindness shown to her, she eventually found herself on the other side of the equation—offering help instead of receiving it. Despite facing physical challenges since early childhood, Lucero has never let her disability hinder her ambitions. Paralyzed from the waist down due to a gunshot injury at six months old, she grew up believing that she could achieve anything. “Mom and dad always told me I’m no different,” Lucero recalls, emphasizing the supportive environment that shaped her outlook on life.

Her determination led her to conquer various activities, including learning how to swim and scuba dive. These experiences reinforced her belief that limitations are often just perceptions. When asked about her motivation for volunteering, Lucero expressed a deep connection to the community. “As long as I can come in and help, I will,” she said, demonstrating a commitment to making a difference. This dedication has not gone unnoticed; the executive director of Community Ministry, Joyce Neufeld, admires Lucero’s resilience and willingness to show others that obstacles can be overcome. Neufeld highlighted the growing need for such positive role models, especially as the number of families seeking assistance has surged in recent years.

The Community Ministry has witnessed a 70% increase in the number of people needing help over the past two years, with daily visits rising from 20-30 families to as many as 113. According to Feed America, over 670,000 individuals in the area face hunger, including nearly 172,000 children. In response to this growing crisis, Lucero encourages everyone to join her mission by volunteering or donating to local food banks. She emphasizes the familial atmosphere at Community Ministries, inviting those interested to contribute their time or resources. Lucero’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of others.

Donna Lucero’s journey from a struggling individual to a beacon of hope exemplifies the transformative power of community support and personal perseverance. Her ability to rise above her circumstances and dedicate herself to helping others is nothing short of inspirational. As the demand for food assistance continues to grow, Lucero’s efforts remind us all of the importance of compassion and solidarity in addressing societal challenges. Her story invites us to reflect on how each of us can contribute to creating a more supportive and resilient community.